Originally designed as an industrial park, Al Serkal Avenue embodied the principles of modern functionalism with its gridiron plan, symmetrical layout, and a focus on vehicular access and goods mobility. This utilitarian design reflected Dubai’s reliance on automobiles and the practical needs of industrial operations during that time. However, as Dubai evolved into a global cultural hub, Al Serkal Avenue transformed, emerging as a key space for artistic and cultural production. This shift contributed significantly to the city's growing reputation as a center for innovation and creativity, providing a platform for contemporary art and cultural expression.
Founded in 2008 by the Al Serkal Arts Foundation, the district’s transformation was driven by a vision to foster cultural production in Dubai. The foundation supports art galleries, design studios, arts organizations, and community spaces, with the overarching goal of creating a vibrant cultural ecosystem. This project aligns with their mission to integrate heritage, functionality, and artistic expression, breathing new life into an industrial space for contemporary cultural engagement.
In response to Dubai's warm climate, the design incorporates shaded walkways and open-air courtyards, promoting pedestrian movement and comfort. These features encourage visitors to explore the area on foot, fostering a vibrant and interactive cultural environment.
The transformation of Al Serkal Avenue has had a measurable impact on the cultural landscape of Dubai. Since its redesign, the area has seen increased foot traffic and engagement, solidifying its status as a central hub for art and culture in the city.
Situated within the heart of Dubai’s bustling urban fabric, Al Serkal Avenue occupies a former industrial park, with its original layout still evident in the warehouses lining the two-way streets. The systematic, grid-like arrangement serves as a reminder of its industrial origins, providing a foundation for its cultural evolution. Despite its urban location, the site’s warm climate and reliance on vehicles present significant challenges for creating accessible, pedestrian-friendly spaces.
The project focuses on reimagining the industrial layout while maintaining its functional integrity. The scope of work includes creating symbolic and experiential interventions that enhance the pedestrian experience, beginning with the redesign of the main entrance. These interventions blend historical references with modern practicality, ensuring that the area remains accessible and functional while becoming a space for artistic expression and engagement.
Drawing inspiration from the French Formal Garden, the design integrates principles of symmetry, axiality, and grid organization. These elements are carefully reinterpreted to align with the industrial language of the existing architecture, creating a seamless transition from utilitarian design to an enchanting space for cultural activities. Renaissance and Baroque influences further enrich the design with symbolic depth, exploring the dynamic relationship between practical function and meaningful user experiences.
A key intervention in the project is the entrance gate, which manipulates a one-point perspective to challenge the simplification of spatial experience into a single visual representation. This approach encourages a multi-sensory understanding of space, enhancing the user's experience. The design merges utility with symbolism, elevating the pedestrian experience while remaining sensitive to the area’s industrial context.
